The Orme School

Established in 1929, The Orme School is a unique, college-preparatory, co-educational boarding and day school for grades 8 through 12, set on 300 acres in rural Arizona. Our mission is to develop sound character, scholastic growth, and intellectual curiosity, as well as enable students to succeed at the college of their choice, and in life. Our community is structured, supportive, and diverse. We awaken untapped potential, encourage inner resourcefulness, integrity, respect and accountability for self and others. Our challenging curriculum features a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on learning and both environmental and aesthetic awareness. From the academic program to residential and community life, the guiding principles of Excellence, Tradition, and Character are applied to every facet of an Orme education.

The Orme School is an oasis for those who are drawn to our guiding principles: Excellence, Tradition, and Character. The big skies and horizons inspire this place known simply as “Orme.” Orme students engage in traditional academically-challenging programs including AP courses, while participating in exceptional outdoor and cultural opportunities designed to build confidence and a sense of community. Our annual expeditions throughout the Southwest, Sustainability program, Fine Arts Festival and weekend cultural experiences provide transformative opportunities. In the minds of top colleges and universities, Orme is considered one of the most unique college preparatory boarding schools.

The Orme Promise is like no other. Our team’s attention to our students is unwavering. Our goal is to support and challenge students to face adversity and achieve their dreams. If you attend Orme, we will push you and stretch your comfort zone. Your teachers and coaches will ask a lot of you. Your advisor will encourage you to make deep and enduring commitments, and will strategize with you to reach your potential. Our diverse, safe and caring community will allow you to embark on a life-changing adventure.

The Orme School graduates educated, well-rounded individuals. We believe that education is not only a solitary activity, but also that long-lasting and meaningful learning occurs best within the framework of a supportive family-like environment. At Orme, a student’s roommate and suite mates, faculty adviser, and teachers become immediate family. Orme students are challenged through a demanding academic program, team and individual sports, including horsemanship, and the rigor and fulfillment of living in a small, intimate community. Our graduates are competent, confident and well positioned to meet the challenges of college and the world beyond.

The School is dedicated to the principles of equal employment opportunity. We prohibit unlawful discrimination against applicants or employees on the basis of age 40 and over, race, sex, color, religion, national origin, disability, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable state or local law.

Living on campus here at Orme is comfortable and invigorating. Our close-knit community provides a familial approach; one that respects you as an individual. Our gorgeous Western landscape and beautiful oasis of a campus make for an unrivaled living experience. Campus life is fun and rigorous, full of Orme traditions, after-school activities (from sports to drama), and a kinship of friends, faculty, coaches and staff. All work in concert on campus to support your dynamic and most excellent personal growth.

The academic program at The Orme School emphasizes mastery in all subjects. Courses include AP English Language and Literature and a full course offering in English as a Second Language (ESL). There are four years of mathematics, including AP Calculus and AP Statistics, a history program with several AP courses and electives, and a Science Department with modern laboratory facilities for environmental science, biology, chemistry, and AP Physics. Skilled instruction in fine arts and music provides balance to a carefully planned college preparatory course of study.

Small classes offer individualized attention and more direct involvement with faculty. The average class size at Orme is eight students, with opportunities throughout the day and evening for students to meet one-on-one with their teachers. Coursework extends well beyond the confines of the schoolroom through outdoor learning, field trips, and study abroad opportunities.